Electrochemical synthesis of benzoxazoles mediated by 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-p-hydroquinone (DDH) as a redox catalyst

•The first report of the electrochemical cyclization of Schiff bases leading to benzoxazoles using DDH as a mediator.•The presence of 2,6-lutidine facilitiates the deprotonation.•The chemistry was performed in a beaker type undivided cell under constant current electrolysis conditions.

A novel electrochemical strategy for the efficient synthesis of benzoxazoles has been developed. The chemistry is performed in a beaker-type undivided cell under constant current electrolysis conditions, utilizing 2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-p-hydroquinone (DDH) as a redox catalyst.